What are Caterpillar serial numbers?

Caterpillar serial numbers are numbers used on Caterpillar equipment to denote model and place of manufacture. Most people use the serial numbers to get suitable matches when rebuilding, reordering or replacing Caterpillar generators and engine sets.

The serial number starts with a three-digit prefix followed by a five-digit serial number. To find the model year of the Caterpillar equipment, locate the product identification number. The serial number of an engine is located on the right back side of the engine block. The serial number of a generator set is located on the left side of the generator. The serial number for a backhoe is located on the right side of the front frame near the pivot point.